Dresden, Germany Photos: Best of the World -- National Geographic

Jeweled Miniatures
Photograph by Norbert Millauer, AFP/Getty Images
World War II-bombed Dresden has been resurrected as one of Germany's top tourist destinations, home to half a dozen world-class museums. The Green Vault museum houses priceless works of art, including a piece called "The Birthday of the Grand Mogul Aurangzeb." Created by artist Johann Melchior Dinglinger from 1701 to 1708, the work includes 137 enameled and jeweled figures.
Frauenkirche
Photograph by Berthold Steinhilber, laif/Redux
The landmark Frauenkirche (“Church of Our Lady”), a baroque masterpiece designed by Dresden city architect George Bähr, was rebuilt from rubble in 2005. It towers over the historic city center of Dresden on Neumarkt Square.
Frauenkirche Dome
Photograph by Arnaud Chicurel, Corbis
The inner dome of the Frauenkirche arches above the nave and features allegories of the Christian virtues of belief, love, hope, and mercy.
Albertinum
Photograph by Werner Huthmacher, laif/Redux
A stark display shows off pieces in the Albertinum, a world-class museum in Dresden. In 2002, the building was flooded when the Elbe River burst its banks. Eight years later, the Albertinum reopened.
Pfund Dairy
Photograph by Fausto Giaccone, Anzenberger/Redux
Cheeses or all kinds are for sale at the beautifully ornate Pfund Dairy in Dresden.
Dresden Zwinger
Photograph by Horst Kolley, Huber/SIME
The Dresden Zwinger ("outer ward") was built for the enjoyment of the aristocracy in the early 18th century. Today the complex includes an opera house, museums, and nymph fountains.
Dresden
Photograph by Berthold Steinhilber, laif/Redux
Bikers rest on the banks of the Elbe across from the cathedral and the royal palace.